2020 has been a tumultuous rollercoaster ride, and we want to thank our Yelp parents for all their hard work and dedication to both their family at home, as well as their work family.
Throughout this year we offered various resources to our Yelp parents to help them cope with everything that’s been added to their plate. When the COVID-19 pandemic first hit, and everyone at Yelp found themself working from home, our parents rallied to create a guide where they shared tips and tricks to navigate their workload, while keeping their kids entertained and well-fed.
Later, we invited senior leaders at Yelp for a panel discussion and asked them to talk about how their parenting skills have been honed over these past few months. One topic was how to discuss complex subjects with children, such as a global pandemic and racial injustice. The consensus of our parent panel was to meet children where they are, be honest, listen to their questions, and acknowledge that you don’t have all the answers.
One of the most popular requests from our parents was to have a virtual meetup where they can chat through specific topics and share ideas with each other. We now host a weekly “YelpParents Brain Break,” and it’s heartwarming to witness how our parents are cheering each other up during these virtual gatherings. In addition, Yelp’s Benefits team organized a webinar in which they highlighted all parent-specific benefits and answered pressing questions.
Last, but not least, we’d like to leave you with a poem that one of our parents composed – a humorous review of 2020.
Ode to 2020
Oh 2020, how we will miss you
With ups and downs, sneezes and tissues
working from home has its highs and lows
We’re closer to loved ones (maybe too close?)
The hustle and bustle of coming and going
has paused for now & brought children bestowing
Some tips for the New Year for all parents to hear
Are in this poem and sure to bring cheer.
Allow things once reserved for special occasions
Like snacks, video games and television
Get dressed up for dinner, give into some vanity
Put kids in time out, if just for your sanity!
Don’t set too many limits and give lots of hugs
Be easy on others and practice self love.
2021 will soon be here
But 2020 will always be a family first year!
– Katie Reagan (National Sales)
